Book It & Go's Top 7 tips in 2017 to save money for travel

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"I haven't been everywhere but it's on my list" -Susan Sontag.

Often times people say that traveling the world is an item on their bucket list but have yet to travel anywhere because their finances don't permit it. It is proven that more than 60% of Americans feel vacation deprived. My family has been blessed with the ability to travel yearly and usually do so by booking our vacations at least 1 year in advance which allows us the flexibility to pay in installments. With our current economic climate there are some people who have the ability to travel while others have a hard time managing their current household bills deeming it nearly impossible to find extra funds to travel. In my opinion, traveling isn't just a way to escape our everyday lives but is a necessity in order to thrive. It is vital that we give ourselves time to recharge, regroup and to grow as human beings. Moreover, let’s face it "To travel is to live" -Hansen Christian Anderson. 

So, here are a Book It & Go's Top 7 tips in 2017 to save money for travel. 

Firstly, be flexible with your travel plans. Throughout the year, there are special prices and promotions offered at lower rates to customers who are open to different dates, traveling midweek and during "shoulder periods" which are basically off peak times. Secondly, instead of eating out for breakfast, lunch and dinner try cooking meals at home. Also, try only eating what is in your pantry rather then spending money out to satisfy certain cravings. This is a guaranteed way to put some money back into your pocket. Thirdly, let’s go back to the basics by using the trusted 'change jar'. Many years ago, I had a hard time believing that any real significant amount of money could be made by doing this until one year I cashed out an old water jug of pennies and nickels and cashed out close to $350 (not bad huh). Fourthly, selling items you no longer want on social sites or garage sales are a great way to earn a few extra bucks. There are several sites out there that allow people from all over the world to buy and sell items no longer useful to them. Although, the amount of profit you make will vary this is a proven way to add some cash back into your wallet. 

Next, you can visit your financial institution to open a travel savings account. Remember to separate your accounts to lessen the chance of accidentally spending the funds. Our sixth tip would to save for travel would be creating a weekly budget. The most vital part of a weekly budget is not creating it but actually sticking to it. Be sure that once the amount of money you allotted yourself for the week is spent you can't but anything until the next week starts. Lastly, be sure to use frequent flyer programs, credit card points, hotel rewards and anything else that will aid in lowering the cost of your trip. I can't stress enough the importance of travel. Let's start using this tips and tricks as soon as possible. If you have any travel tips you think we may have missed leave them in the comments below.